School board recognition
Becky Albrecht
January 22-28 is Missouri School Board Recognition Week. During this time, communities across the state will honor the dedicated service of school board members in an effort to promote understanding of the important function these elected boards play in communities and schools. Their actions and decisions have significant impact on both the present and the future.
In Missouri the public school Board of Education is a representative body elected by the registered voters of the district. It derives its power from state law and only has authority to act as a whole during an official meeting. In general, its purpose is to exercise supervision over the district according to the following responsibilities:
• Legislative and Policy Making — The Board develops policies and procedures that guide the general management of the district. It also evaluates the effectiveness of these policies and their implementation. The Board adopts the annual budget which provides financial support for personnel, facilities, materials and equipment. It is responsible for establishing educational goals to guide staff.
• Executive — The Board hires, employs, and evaluates a superintendent to serve as chief executive officer responsible for the daily oversight, management, and administration of the district. The Board also votes to employ staff. It adopts salary schedules, terms of employment, and other personnel policies for the district. The Board is responsible for effective communication – keeping patrons informed about the schools and being aware of the needs and wishes of patrons – and monitoring student achievement.
• Judicial — The Board is responsible for acting as a court of appeals for the staff members, students, and district patrons when issues involve Board policies.
By law and policy, members of the Maryville R-II Board of Education shall be citizens of the United States, resident taxpayers of the district, have resided in the state for at least one year, and be at least 24 years of age. In addition, to serve on the board, members must be current on all taxes, free of certain criminal convictions, file a personal disclosures with the MO Ethics Commission, and not be employed by the district. Members must participate in an orientation program and complete at least 16 hours of specific training within one year of their election or appointment.
Although showing appreciation should occur year-round, it is important to take advantage of this designated time to be sure our local members are acknowledged for their commitment and sacrifice. Thank you to the Maryville R-II Board of Education members past and current: President Jason Haer, Vice President Sean Wiedmaier, Elaine Wilson, Frank Grispino, Roger Baker, Rob Sparks, and Josh McKim. Thank you, also, Kenna Parman. Ms. Parman is elected by the board members to serve as the board secretary.
Dr. Becky Albrecht is the Superintendent at Maryville R-II
